Boost Your Brain
How many times have you said: “Sorry, I’ve got a terrible memory”? It’s easy to forget things. Your mind naturally filters out things that it doesn’t think you’ll need again.
Having said that, most of us would agree that we’d like to be better at retaining information, so in this section you’ll find you hints for improving your memory and giving your brain a workout.
Mind Gym
It isn’t just your body that needs taking care of, your mind needs exercise too. Research suggests that you can boost your memory by exercising it daily, so why not train your brain with mind puzzles like Sudoku and crosswords.
Regular physical activity can also make you more alert and relaxed. Aerobic exercise improves circulation and efficiency throughout the body, including in the brain, and can help ward off the memory loss that comes with aging.
Exercise also makes you more alert and relaxed, and can thereby improve your memory uptake, allowing you to take better mental “pictures." Check out the Fitness Class Timetable to find out what activities are happening in your local sport centres.
Check out the Stay Active and Learning sections for ideas.
Help at your Local Library
You could also sign up for a leisure class. You can learn a new language, a craft or take up a sport. Or why not head to your local library where you can surf the Net for free or join a computing class.
Some local libraries now have My Health Information Points where in addition to grabbing books and leaflets, you can ask to speak with a health information worker about mangaing stress. See our section on how to Get Support from My Local Library.
A simple memory game
Next time you're on a bus or in the car, limber up your memory by thinking of as many words as possible that begin with the letter ‘A’, then work your way through the alphabet.
Make it more interesting by focussing on a hobby. If you like to travel, think of country names, if you’re a film buff, go for movies or if you love music see how many band names you can remember.
Online quizzes and information
BBC: Tips and Techniques to Improve your Memory
From cramming for exams to wordplay.
BBC: Memory Test
How good is your memory? Take this fun BBC quiz, it takes about 20 minutes
Your Amazing Brain
UK site with quick memory games and tips.
Worried about your Memory
Sometimes the reason you’re forgetful is due to underlying problems.
If you’re stressed or anxious you’re memory is much more likely to suffer. It is almost impossible to live without some degree of stress, but don’t let it get the better of you.
Ask a friend or family member for help or talk to your GP. Check out our information on Stress and Relaxation.
